Who do I ask for a reference after a layoff? (Atlanta)

I worry a reference will only confirm dates of employment. I am in Atlanta, in case local advice matters. HR only confirms titles and dates. How do you ask politely?

Thanks for writing this out. I went through something close to it last year, and it got easier once I kept a simple log of every call and form.

Ask former colleagues and supervisors in a short message and give them a summary of the job you are applying for.